Are Lakers Being Given a Good Rap?

I am completely baffled by the contradictions in Bill Plaschke’s attitude. In the May 3 paper, he deplored the disappearance of humble legends like Elway and Gretzky, and the emergence of “tattooed instant superstars.” And yet, every time he writes about the Lakers and the Jazz, he always paints the Jazz as “cheaters,” “crybabies” and all-around “bad sports.” The Lakers he praises as great young talent just trying to get a break. I suggest he take a look at Utah’s Stockton, Hornacek, Bailey and Malone--humble, non-tattooed guys who have paid their dues, and compare them to the L.A.’s “instant superstars” Shaq, Kobe, Rice, Fox, etc.

Where are his loud lamentations when it comes to what’s happening in his own backyard?

DAVID ATKINS, Los Angeles

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Shaq says, “I ain’t missing no more.”

Kobe says, “I ain’t worried about Glen.”

If athletes don’t stop saying ain’t, I ain’t watchin’.

GEORGE WOOD, Malibu